McF returning to cardbacks...with a weird twist.

[Peter Hoffman]

http://www.spawn.com/news/news3.aspx?id=13348

[CGSPAWN]

I advise everyone to steer clear of the sports board. They aren't taking this so well.

I am an opener, so its not that big a deal. MOC collectors kinda got screwed on this one.

[logain99]

I advise everyone to steer clear of the sports board. They aren't taking this so well.

I am an opener, so its not that big a deal. MOC collectors kinda got screwed on this one.

This may turn me into an opener also.

[Captain Sassy Pants]

Why? What's wrong with it?

This is a serious question.

[Parler]

Are they only doing this on the Sports figures or will the Halo/Spawn figs be affected as well?

[CGSPAWN]

Are they only doing this on the Sports figures or will the Halo/Spawn figs be affected as well?

I believe Halo will be its debut.

[Peter Hoffman]

Reading is hard.

[Parler]

I believe Halo will be its debut.

Bummer. :( This might turn me onto opening my MOC figs as well.

[Spawnomite]

Are they only doing this on the Sports figures or will the Halo/Spawn figs be affected as well?Halo will be affected also.
A new larger blister card - created specifically for our sports lines - will debut with NFL Legends Series 4, scheduled to reach stores in July. A similar blister card for our non-sports figures will be debuting with the release of Halo 3, Series 2 in June.

[RaoulOD]

Yikes.

This poses a problem for the MOC collector in me. Not sure what to think about this - the clamshells really are ideal for MOC collecting, but I also open half of my figs and it will be nice to be able to just rip off the card like I used to do... hmm.

Joe - Is this partly due to the rising cost of oil (to produce the plastic for the clamshells)?

[CGSPAWN]

What the hell? Are Halo fans NOW saying they are going to become openers? The Halo figures look like **** in the package and are amazing opened.

[Wrestling Fan]

For me it doesn't matter as I am an opener all the way. But ya know, the packaging doesn't look too bad for you MOCers, although I understand the fears of damage to the cards

[Hordakk]

I think most people are missing a huge point. Plastics are a hell of a lot more expensive than cardboard. This will save McToys a ton of cash. And I'm a big fan of cardboard packages anyway. They used them for years, then switched, and now are switching back. I hate trying to pry open those damn plastic bubbles and then having to undo 100 twistie ties.

[Uwe]

This is fine with me. The most recent packaging felt way too...empty.

[CGSPAWN]

I think most people are missing a huge point. Plastics are a hell of a lot more expensive than cardboard. This will save McToys a ton of cash. And I'm a big fan of cardboard packages anyway. They used them for years, then switched, and now are switching back. I hate trying to pry open those damn plastic bubbles and then having to undo 100 twistie ties.

...but will McFarlane add anything with the saved cash? (ie. Hockey goals for you sports fans)

I have cut myself up pretty good with the clamshells. Blame my lack of patience. I open the friggin things with a sharp kitchen knife.

[Uwe]

...but will McFarlane add anything with the saved cash? (ie. Hockey goals for you sports fans)

I have cut myself up pretty good with the clamshells. Blame my lack of patience. I open the friggin things with a sharp kitchen knife.
Oye, use scissors. Faster and safer, IMO.

[shandy_man]

I really don't mind the change...I was used to the figures back in the day so it's no big deal....most of the guys on the sports board though.....gezzzz it's packaging for crying out loud....you purchase McFarlane Toys for the core product, the figure...not for the packaging lol

[CGSPAWN]

I really don't mind the change...I was used to the figures back in the day so it's no big deal....most of the guys on the sports board though.....gezzzz it's packaging for crying out loud....you purchase McFarlane Toys for the core product, the figure...not for the packaging lol

Eh. I can see why they are a tad pissed. Since sports figures lack articulation a lot of people keep them mint. Sports figures have one pose, and most of them look fine in the newer clamshells. The plastic shells don't obstruct any view except from behind. The clamshells look good with the sports figures. Not so much with the non sports figures. Though I suppose you could argue that most non-sports figures don't have articulation.

Still, isn't something im gonna lose sleep over.

[WhO Iz THiZ Iz]

did they give a reason for this move???

cheaper, easier to package....what is it...not that i care...but just wondering...they should be some sort of logic or reason for this.

new strategy??= saving $$$

???:confused::confused::confused::confused::confused::confused::confused::confused::confused:

[CGSPAWN]

did they give a reason for this move???

cheaper, easier to package....what is it...not that i care...but just wondering...they should be some sort of logic or reason for this.

new strategy??= saving $$$

???:confused::confused::confused::confused::confused::confused::confused::confused::confused:

Most be the money. I can't imagine they would think this would be popular with the fans.

[w00tiness]

So then will Halo points still be in Series 2 with no more inserts? Will it be printed on the back of the cardboard?

[WhO Iz THiZ Iz]

So then will Halo points still be in Series 2 with no more inserts? Will it be printed on the back of the cardboard?

damn good question!

[avcprime]

I just read this over the sport boards. Its like a different board and you can tell by the people's avatars. I guess the only forum that we come together is the movie board.

Back to topic, yes the packaging sucks, but if they don't shrink the sizes of figs I don't care.

[Hempy]

What the hell? Are Halo fans NOW saying they are going to become openers? The Halo figures look like **** in the package and are amazing opened.
I so have to agree with you on that. I started to buy these to collect moc. After a day i decided forget this there getting sliced open! Halo points also was a big reason. They seemed to rush out the background art to fast. It looks to generic/beta phase look. Better then having the halo figures in the old sports clams! Or is it hmmmm. Anyways i am happy i gave up the sports stuff month ago. Bad move to go this route. I will still buy halo series 2 &3! Just watch the scalpers now try to find the mintish boxed halo figures!

[Hockeyfan74]

Yep, it's gonna be a pain in the ass for MOMC collectors to find cardboard that's not trashed. But I think this can of worms is distinguishing a bit who the MOC collectors for $$$ are from the ones who keep MOC for the artwork etc.

The only thing I think that really sucks is another change so soon after the last one.

[Mr. Wiggity Man]

I advise everyone to steer clear of the sports board. They aren't taking this so well.

I am an opener, so its not that big a deal. MOC collectors kinda got screwed on this one.

LOL, that's an understatement on the sports board. I just checked it out and there's like 5 or 6 threads on the subject, some multiple pages long.

[rxsheepxr]

Toys are meant to be opened, **** the Sports boards.

[Sanghelli]

Holy crap. I have some preorders to cancel.

[Peter Hoffman]

Yep, it's gonna be a pain in the ass for MOMC collectors to find cardboard that's not trashed.


Transformers and Hot Wheels collectors seem to manage ok, and there's a hell of a lot more of them than there are McF collectors.

[Hempy]

Holy crap. I have some preorders to cancel.
Yeah i had a montana & Moon preordered on amazon. I will buy the montana but canceled the moon.


Yep, it's gonna be a pain in the ass for MOMC collectors to find cardboard that's not trashed. But I think this can of worms is distinguishing a bit who the MOC collectors for $$$ are from the ones who keep MOC for the artwork etc.

Actually i like most sports moc on my walls. You be amazed how much space you save. I myself would want one of the better condition clams. You keep hearing from friends you know someone damaged this it was not me! Also the famous why did you buy a collectable that is damaged like that. I myself do like decent clams but they do not have to be mint. If they display on my wall fine then thats good enough for me. Since now i want to sell 400 or so sports figures i sort of do care about value. I wasted enough money on this line. I even got 15 customs that i bet i will never finish now. I just not in to the sports stuff much anymore. A Montana is a must buy for me why i ordered it. Forgot my point blah! Point is some people do care about clams but not value of them. Like i care about getting Steve Mcnair decent clam the figure you can not even give away! Talking his rookie titans one.

[Zombie Spawn]

They were cardboard when I started collecting so switching back is no big deal. I ike the clamshells as they're easier to keep MOC. One bonus about this (especially for Sportspicks) is that the figures can come fully assembled, unlike the mess that is Spawn 33.

[Uwe]

Holy crap. I have some preorders to cancel.
Holy crap, I have some preorders to place.

[Summoned From Hell]

Wow, TMP is completely losing it.Everything they've been making from 2007 up to now is just totally inferior compared to the stuff they've realeased before.
And I mean everything....from the comics to the toys(except the dragon lines).
The comic artwork has lowered signficantly, although a lot of people may like it's nowhere near as good as the greg,todd,medina era, and so goes for the history line, I mean...godslayer got canceled, something isn't right.
Gunslinger spawn was only worth the cover....

As for the toys, it's just ridiculous, their quality keeps droping and droping it's a letdown followed by letdown.
You don't even have to try hard to see the difference btw the paintjob of older figures to the current ones.Look at the Zodiac series or Blade runners....age of pharaohs, the paint is just bland...even though you may find it good it's impossible to deny that the older figures paint job and sculpting were waaay better.
This classic series remake series...they've managed to do all the figures worse, look at the sword of Jumbo, totally bland, no dents,carvings nothing...just some gray paint....
same with that Ogre from Bladerunners, compare it to a similar figure like Dojo...that says everything.
I might be dead wrong but for me TMP is just slowly going down and all those changes they're making are just desperate moves to recover their finances.
For me it's clearly visible at the Spawn comics, nothing personal...but I'm sure they would rather hire a better penciller......
Just my thoughts :spawnorb:

[InnerRayg]

Toys are meant to be opened, **** the Sports boards.

The question is, are sports figures toys or just small, mass produced collectible statues?

[JacktheRipper]

So then will Halo points still be in Series 2 with no more inserts? Will it be printed on the back of the cardboard?
Does it really matter where they are placed? We don't even know what they are for.

[worldsfinest]

What makes me laugh is that people actually think these things are going to be worth thousands of dollars in the future.Lets all get a grip on reality people and finally realize that nothing McFarlane Toys makes is going to go the ways of toys from the early 80s.Hell I cant see any toy company out there making something worth any thing close to the early 80s stuff.Buy the toy open it up and display it or play with it,and once its lost its luster put it away in a and get something new.
And as for the sports guys get a life.The Sports stuff will never be starting line up so do go killing yourselves just cause they are going to be packaged with a cardboard back.

[Uwe]

You don't even have to try hard to see the difference btw the paintjob of older figures to the current ones.Look at the Zodiac series or Blade runners....age of pharaohs, the paint is just bland...
That made my night. :D

[Summoned From Hell]

Hehhee
Bladehunters...just to demonstrate how much I hate this line, can't even spell it correctly.

[AsterisX18]

Lets see they do this w/ the dragons

[Muramasa]

Wait, what? This change makes the figures look better if left in package, rather than looking like amputees. Why would you be more inclined to open your figures? I think some people are missing the point.

[thespawnx]

w00t! that is a big news!

[ogrjmj]

all i have to say is star wars unleashed,remember how hard it was to find those even close to nmoc let alone moc??

[j97e]

open them!

[rxsheepxr]

Wow, TMP is completely losing it.Everything they've been making from 2007 up to now is just totally inferior compared to the stuff they've realeased before.
And I mean everything....from the comics to the toys(except the dragon lines).
The comic artwork has lowered signficantly, although a lot of people may like it's nowhere near as good as the greg,todd,medina era, and so goes for the history line, I mean...godslayer got canceled, something isn't right.
Gunslinger spawn was only worth the cover....

As for the toys, it's just ridiculous, their quality keeps droping and droping it's a letdown followed by letdown.
You don't even have to try hard to see the difference btw the paintjob of older figures to the current ones.Look at the Zodiac series or Blade runners....age of pharaohs, the paint is just bland...even though you may find it good it's impossible to deny that the older figures paint job and sculpting were waaay better.
This classic series remake series...they've managed to do all the figures worse, look at the sword of Jumbo, totally bland, no dents,carvings nothing...just some gray paint....
same with that Ogre from Bladerunners, compare it to a similar figure like Dojo...that says everything.
I might be dead wrong but for me TMP is just slowly going down and all those changes they're making are just desperate moves to recover their finances.
For me it's clearly visible at the Spawn comics, nothing personal...but I'm sure they would rather hire a better penciller......
Just my thoughts :spawnorb:

If you say so, slim. If McFarlane is so inferior, I'd love to see your reasoning behind that fact that their still on top of the game, so to speak. It's a company that's unfortunate in that it's got great fans, but those fans are ****ing fickle. Being a fan of McFarlane is like being a fairweather sports fan, you LOVE your local teams when they're winning, but hate the **** out of them when they lose. It's ridiculous. At the end of the day, they're pieces of plastic, toys... if you're going to get so worked up over something use it for something productive.

The question is, are sports figures toys or just small, mass produced collectible statues?

Either way, would you cover a statue in clear plastic?

[NY56]

Toys are meant to be opened, **** the Sports boards.

Now is that nice:mad: Now go stand in the corner and think about what u said, and further more no more toys for u:p to play with. NOW GO!!!!!

[Graham]

This is good news....I'm ****ing sick of nearly slicing my fingers off trying to break into a clamshell......just tearing off a cardboard backing is much safer.....

[Sanghelli]

This is good news....I'm ****ing sick of nearly slicing my fingers off trying to break into a clamshell......just tearing off a cardboard backing is much safer.....

All you had to do was use scissors. ;)

[Summoned From Hell]

If you say so, slim. If McFarlane is so inferior, I'd love to see your reasoning behind that fact that their still on top of the game, so to speak. It's a company that's unfortunate in that it's got great fans, but those fans are ****ing fickle. Being a fan of McFarlane is like being a fairweather sports fan, you LOVE your local teams when they're winning, but hate the **** out of them when they lose. It's ridiculous. At the end of the day, they're pieces of plastic, toys... if you're going to get so worked up over something use it for something productive.



Either way, would you cover a statue in clear plastic?

McFarlane is not on top of their game, it's previous toy lines were a lot more popular and sold pretty well(they didn't got cancelled just like some recent lines:rolleyes:).
As for the fan thing for me it's clearly that at the present momment TMP is not able to correspond to it's fans demands, I'm not saying they don't care for them, but due to various circumstances like big markets dictations and such they are forced to release
a product that isn't as "high endend" as we were used to get. So of course, I'll complain, I am not hating the company, I'm just disappointed.
It's good that there are costumers that will still be buying TMP stuff, if you like it you buy simple as that.
As for me I'd rather have their old "pieces of plastic";)

[Tyler J]

McFarlane is not on top of their game, it's previous toy lines were a lot more popular and sold pretty well(they didn't got cancelled just like some recent lines:rolleyes:).
As for the fan thing for me it's clearly that at the present momment TMP is not able to correspond to it's fans demands, I'm not saying they don't care for them, but due to various circumstances like big markets dictations and such they are forced to release
a product that isn't as "high endend" as we were used to get. So of course, I'll complain, I am not hating the company, I'm just disappointed.
It's good that there are costumers that will still be buying TMP stuff, if you like it you buy simple as that.
As for me I'd rather have their old "pieces of plastic";)

Clarify for me what "corresponding to our fan's demands" refers to.

[Avatar_of_Chaos]

respond?

[Tyler J]

I can tell this is going to be a long winded response.

[Avatar_of_Chaos]

I can handle all of your customer complaints if you can hook me up with an HR job for Toddy Mack Productions ;)

[Tyler J]

You don't want that...trust me.

[Avatar_of_Chaos]

The customer complaints or the HR job?

[Tyler J]

I'll Never tell....

[Avatar_of_Chaos]

I'll never lose your paycheck...

[Tyler J]

How did you find out about that? What the...???

[ragingdemon]

Of all things for people to complain about...

[Avatar_of_Chaos]

I'm in your ESPN, getting the scoop on next week's updates

[Avatar_of_Chaos]

Of all things for people to complain about...

you're in Kansas now? how's that working?

[ragingdemon]

So far pretty good, actually. It's a pretty nice city, much more to do than in Vermillion, SD. Also a whole lot more busier, hence the delay in sending out a certain envelope:o

[Tyler J]

I'm in your ESPN, getting the scoop on next week's updates

HA ha! Gotchya! I don't watch ESPN.

[Avatar_of_Chaos]

So far pretty good, actually. It's a pretty nice city, much more to do than in Vermillion, SD. Also a whole lot more busier, hence the delay in sending out a certain envelope:o

pfffft, I'm not worried bout it. glad to hear the new digs are treating you well

[herzograven]

I really don't mind the change...I was used to the figures back in the day so it's no big deal....most of the guys on the sports board though.....gezzzz it's packaging for crying out loud....you purchase McFarlane Toys for the core product, the figure...not for the packaging lol

very good point
the focus should be on the quality of the figure, not the packaging

BUT i can see why people are going apesh/t over the new upcoming change, the glue holding the plastic and cardboard together eventually comes undone no matter how well you store them

however, i couldn't care less for the spots figures/fans, cause in all honesty, i can't stand the sports figures .... McF has been releasing a crap load of sports figures each year and neglecting the sci-fi/fantasy series/figures .... other than the consistent dragon series releases, there hasn't been much out in the last year or so that was mind blowing (maybe the xmas figures, but they came in such a messy format, hated hunting for mrs claus)

anyway, my take on it, it's just packaging, get over it and open the damn figures :D

[ragingdemon]

I agree, now I won't have to dig out the scissors!

[herzograven]

Wait, what? This change makes the figures look better if left in package, rather than looking like amputees. Why would you be more inclined to open your figures? I think some people are missing the point.

people just like to complain
i don't think McF or any other company can bring ANY change without a massive amount *****ing
that's just people man! :)

[Sanghelli]

Wait, what? This change makes the figures look better if left in package, rather than looking like amputees. Why would you be more inclined to open your figures? I think some people are missing the point.

It'd be fine if these packages would last, but cardboard backers eventually separate even if you take care of them. I'll still buy the figures, but I'll no longer buy an extra set to keep sealed.

[Summoned From Hell]

Clarify for me what "corresponding to our fan's demands" refers to.

Sorry I was playing some music:D
As for fan's demands I refer to things like articulation, better paint apps, a new dark ages series(jk XD) better scaled figure, things that I see that most of the people here want.

[Gavrilo Princip]

Clarify for me what "corresponding to our fan's demands" refers to.


That's easy, consistency.

And raising the bar rather than lowering it.


Something McFarlane Toys was great at from '94 to '02, but slowly became downright terrible at over the past few years.

Not trying to be a abrasive or anything Tyler, but just plain and simply honest.

--Gav

[Freddy vs. Teen Wolf]

This is good news....I'm ****ing sick of nearly slicing my fingers off trying to break into a clamshell......just tearing off a cardboard backing is much safer.....

Agreed.

[lollerskates]

Reminds me of the simpsons DVD boxsets... halfway through they switched to the characters heads instead of metallic colour coded cardboard... just bad marketing...

huh? they still do the normal looking boxsets. the characters heads are just special editions...

[watts]

The evolution of Spawn toys

01. cardboard backed fig's with accessories & base

02. cardboard backed fig's with accessories

03. clamshell pkg'd fig's with accessories & base

04. clamshell pkg'd fig's with accessories

05. clamshell pkg'd fig's (almost no accessories)

06. clamshell pkg'd fig's

07. clamshell pkg'd SMALLER fig's- new smaller clamshell

08. cardboard backed smaller fig's

I actually like the cardboard backed fig's...
just bring back 6" figures with base & accessories

[herzograven]

The evolution of Spawn toys

01. cardboard backed fig's with accessories & base

02. cardboard backed fig's with accessories

03. clamshell pkg'd fig's with accessories & base

04. clamshell pkg'd fig's with accessories

05. clamshell pkg'd fig's (almost no accessories)

06. clamshell pkg'd fig's

07. clamshell pkg'd SMALLER fig's- new smaller clamshell

08. cardboard backed smaller fig's

I actually like the cardboard backed fig's...
just bring back 6" figures with base & accessories



agreed
MAYBE 5% of my collection consists of figures smaller than 6"

loved the scale the AVP predators/aliens came in, then series 2 sucked beyond belief
dragons came in an awesome scale, and then they got skinny with the last series (8 i think), didn't get those

so bring back the 6"+ scale McFooFoo :D

[Jarek]

Most of my collection is open anyways, so i don't really care what they do.

[Phoenix Blaze]

This is good news....I'm ****ing sick of nearly slicing my fingers off trying to break into a clamshell......just tearing off a cardboard backing is much safer.....



See, that's just ******ed. All it takes is a good sharp knife, carefully sliced along the back of the clamshell then pull it apart.

I see where the MOC folk have a problem witht he card backing, and I do have a problem in that I'll no longer have the inside leaflets to keep, instead I'll be keeping the backing card, which takes up more space.


You can deny that McF has gone down in the last few years. There was a point where toys came with large bases and plenty of accessories. There was also a point where we got none of that. A prime example of McF listening to us, but getting it wrong is this new Age of the Pharohs line. For a good long time the fans have asked for an Eqyptian line, and when McF finally deliver it, it's awful and I know that I certainly won't be buying anything from the line (which is a first for me, to not buy evena single figure from a Spawn line).


There's an element where I think McF are trying to do new things, like different scaled toys, to try and stay at the top of the toy collecting game. It's what they've been known to do (as in, doing what the others don't), but I think they're doing the wrong thing this time. I think they need to go back to the quality of say, Spawn series 24 (best Spawn line ever. Period.) if they really want to recapture whatever it was that made and still kinda makes McF truly awesome.

[w00tiness]

I really don't get why people cut themselves opening clamshells. All it takes are 3 easy cuts along the sides and bottom of the back of the package and you can easily lift out the interior plastic containing the figure. If you're cutting yourself too often - stop using the hedge clippers. Or just stop cutting towards yourself and using a really dull knife.

[bonedust]

Yep, it's gonna be a pain in the ass for MOMC collectors to find cardboard that's not trashed. But I think this can of worms is distinguishing a bit who the MOC collectors for $$$ are from the ones who keep MOC for the artwork etc.


ive got 2750+ card board backed figures, all in mint to near mint condition, and never really had to search. sure, i passed on and dinged up stuff, but ive passed on WAY more crunch clamshells. way more...

i prefer the cardboard, and like this change. now just stop shinking the figure McFarlane. that **** is beginning to urk me.

[Phoenix Blaze]

Does anyone see the new Halo toys as McF shrinking their ranges?

Yes McF are shrinking their toys, but I don't think this is the case for their Halo range. I think it's an example of McF "trying to be different" and allowing to have the toys to scale with each other. Now there's an element where the scale isn't exact, like the fact that the jackal and the grunt are pretty mighty indeed, but what we do get is a Brute that towers over Master Chief, as he rightly should do! If Chief was standard 8inch scale, a Brute would be huge and probably be some boxed set exclusive.

What I do miss, is the boxed sets most series of toys used to come with. You'd get you 5 or 6 single figures, then a boxed set. And what's with new lines having only like 4 toys!? What's that all about! Was McF too damn lazy to design 6 of the classic spawn toys?

[Karnis]

The answer to every question is money. With the price of oil at near $110 a barrel, producing, packaging & distributing figures has become increasingly more expensive over the last few years. McF has been doing all they can to keep figures at a certain price point while maintaining some semblance of the quality they been known for over the years while turning enough profit to stay afloat.
It's just a fact of trying to stay alive in these difficult economic times. :spawnorb:
No doubt by reducing the amount of plastic used in their packaging they save thousands of dollars over the long haul, which translates into their continued existance, which I believe even the boardies here would agree is a good thing. ;)

[Peter Hoffman]

BUT i can see why people are going apesh/t over the new upcoming change, the glue holding the plastic and cardboard together eventually comes undone no matter how well you store them




Chances are you'll die before the glue seperates.

[Muramasa]

It'd be fine if these packages would last, but cardboard backers eventually separate even if you take care of them. I'll still buy the figures, but I'll no longer buy an extra set to keep sealed.
The oldest action figures I have still mint are some Ninja Turtles figures from the early 90s. The cardboard backs on those are still fine. Clear plastic gets yellow though. You can't expect the packaging to always look good.

[Muramasa]

The evolution of Spawn toys

01. cardboard backed fig's with accessories & base

02. cardboard backed fig's with accessories

03. clamshell pkg'd fig's with accessories & base

04. clamshell pkg'd fig's with accessories

05. clamshell pkg'd fig's (almost no accessories)

06. clamshell pkg'd fig's

07. clamshell pkg'd SMALLER fig's- new smaller clamshell

08. cardboard backed smaller fig's

I actually like the cardboard backed fig's...
just bring back 6" figures with base & accessories
First of all, you forgot that the first Spawn toys McFarlane ever made were in clamshells.

Secondly, McFarlane didn't make bases for their figures until series 17, if I remember correctly.

[Tyler J]

Sorry I was playing some music:D
As for fan's demands I refer to things like articulation, better paint apps, a new dark ages series(jk XD) better scaled figure, things that I see that most of the people here want.
How do you know that we haven't taken those things into consideration? Have you seen everything we are doing this year, or next year?

HALO would be my first example in taking all of your commentary into consideration- those figures are beyond articulated.

[RaiderInNY]

Cardbacks, Clamshells...

I'm opening anyway.

[Tyler J]

That's easy, consistency.

And raising the bar rather than lowering it.


Something McFarlane Toys was great at from '94 to '02, but slowly became downright terrible at over the past few years.

Not trying to be a abrasive or anything Tyler, but just plain and simply honest.

--Gav
Don't worry- I asked for your opinion- and you gave it. I appreciate your feedback. And I hope that you don't take me being abrasive either with my reply;

Can everybody on this thread take something into consideration for me? It ISN'T 1994-2002 any more. The market we are in currently isn't the same market it was years ago. We have to adjust to the CURRENT market, and changing our packaging was something that had to be done as part of that adjustment.

[Tyler J]

The answer to every question is money. With the price of oil at near $110 a barrel, producing, packaging & distributing figures has become increasingly more expensive over the last few years. McF has been doing all they can to keep figures at a certain price point while maintaining some semblance of the quality they been known for over the years while turning enough profit to stay afloat.
It's just a fact of trying to stay alive in these difficult economic times. :spawnorb:
No doubt by reducing the amount of plastic used in their packaging they save thousands of dollars over the long haul, which translates into their continued existance, which I believe even the boardies here would agree is a good thing. ;)

^^^New favorite boardie^^^

:D:D:D:D

[Tyler J]

let me ask a simple question- would you rather pay more money for the same figure, or pay the same price? Because with the price of oil isn't coming down anytime soon.

[Tyler J]

Let me also say that you guys are taking this MUCH better than the sports board. And for that, I thank you.

[ogrjmj]

Let me also say that you guys are taking this MUCH better than the sports board. And for that, I thank you.

thats because most of the people on the dark side of the board( that would be this side) are openers. ;) . i understand the reason, but i don't like it. i hate the big top cardboard flap more than anything else. if it was just the back of the package it wouldn't be so bad,but a 12 inch package is way too big for those of us anal retentive moc folks. anyway,i'll still buy them just not as many since im running out of room anyway.

[Tyler J]

thats because most of the people on the dark side of the board( that would be this side) are openers. ;) . i understand the reason, but i don't like it. i hate the big top cardboard flap more than anything else. if it was just the back of the package it wouldn't be so bad,but a 12 inch package is way too big for those of us anal retentive moc folks. anyway,i'll still buy them just not as many since im running out of room anyway.

Ha ha, the dark side. I am not saying that some of what you(not just you- the boardies in general) are talking about isn't valid. But, you all have to understand that we aren't doing this to spite any of you. It was a decision that had to be made, which is mainly due to the current state of the toy market.

But- I am curious as to why this is such a drastic change to a lot of you, when our original packaging was pretty much the same size. I have my set of NHLPA Goalies that are on cardboard.

[BiBLE]

let me ask a simple question- would you rather pay more money for the same figure, or pay the same price? Because with the price of oil isn't coming down anytime soon.

It's not really news when the price of a barrel of oil breaks a record every day.

Besides, it's either that or deplete the forests to make the cardboard.

We are screwed either way. It's just terrible.

Now if you will excuse me, I have to find my can of hair spray.

[Gavrilo Princip]

Don't worry- I asked for your opinion- and you gave it. I appreciate your feedback. And I hope that you don't take me being abrasive either with my reply;

Can everybody on this thread take something into consideration for me? It ISN'T 1994-2002 any more. The market we are in currently isn't the same market it was years ago. We have to adjust to the CURRENT market, and changing our packaging was something that had to be done as part of that adjustment.

I should have stated I have no problem with the packaging, I open everything so cardbacks just make it that much easier. The main problems are scale and (lack of) articulation, and sometimes design-- (for example, all male figures from Spawn 33 having the exact same body type, the kit-bashed look of the spawn from that line, the over-use of the ankh symbol to compensate for the lack of an Egyptian feel, etc.)

let me ask a simple question- would you rather pay more money for the same figure, or pay the same price? Because with the price of oil isn't coming down anytime soon.


The answer to that's easy too: I would much rather pay more. I would always pay the appropriate price for a well-designed, well articulated figure in the proper scale, rather than pass on the figure completely because it just doesn't measure up.

Take the Poacher II figure for example. I was ready to buy that figure when it comes out until I saw the in-scale comparison yesterday. There is no way I'd buy that figure now. If it was released in the appropriate scale, I would have.

I gotta say though, I do appreciate you coming on and discussing it with us Tyler

--Gav

[ogrjmj]

Ha ha, the dark side. I am not saying that some of what you(not just you- the boardies in general) are talking about isn't valid. But, you all have to understand that we aren't doing this to spite any of you. It was a decision that had to be made, which is mainly due to the current state of the toy market.

But- I am curious as to why this is such a drastic change to a lot of you, when our original packaging was pretty much the same size. I have my set of NHLPA Goalies that are on cardboard.

i guess it has to do alot with continuity,displayabilty,storage and most importatnly condition. for us moc'ers it's nice to have the package the same size for displaying and storage,plus with the cardboard backs and especially the top flap it's going to be more prone to bends,creases,veins,dents warping etc....just makes the figures look like cheap toys now and not collectible highly detailed figures.plus the shipping nightmare is another aspect,with the newer smaller compact clamshells not only do they take up way less room they also display well and ship very well. with the 12 inch cardboard it's going to take a much bigger box and more packing material and i'm sure the online retailers are going to love that,plus ordering from tru or kb.com was always hit and miss on getting figures in good shape,heck,tru.com ships them in envelopes sometimes ..lol, now with this huge cardboard top flap can you imagine how they will just bend it to fit in a smaller box? all these things take away from the collectibility of this product, i just hope sometime in the near future when sales slip even more they go back to the plastic clam.

[BiBLE]

The new cardboard backing should hurt the secondary market due to less figures being capable of a MOC status and value.

[Tyler J]

i guess it has to do alot with continuity,displayabilty,storage and most importatnly condition. for us moc'ers it's nice to have the package the same size for displaying and storage,plus with the cardboard backs and especially the top flap it's going to be more prone to bends,creases,veins,dents warping etc....just makes the figures look like cheap toys now and not collectible highly detailed figures.plus the shipping nightmare is another aspect,with the newer smaller compact clamshells not only do they take up way less room they also display well and ship very well. with the 12 inch cardboard it's going to take a much bigger box and more packing material and i'm sure the online retailers are going to love that,plus ordering from tru or kb.com was always hit and miss on getting figures in good shape,heck,tru.com ships them in envelopes sometimes ..lol, now with this huge cardboard top flap can you imagine how they will just bend it to fit in a smaller box? all these things take away from the collectibility of this product, i just hope sometime in the near future when sales slip even more they go back to the plastic clam.

For MOC, I can understand your concern with the mint packaging. And I can see how shipping product could be a concern- but don't think that we aren't already trying to make sure to take care of these issues. Our case packs are going to be adjusted to accommodate the difference in size, as well as the difference in the plastic bubble that needs to be adjusted due to the figure.

But, I have to disagree with you on one thing- cardboard isn't going to make our toys look cheap. Our toys were originally on cardboard, and I would say that because of the packaging being very similar to other companies at that time, it helped the product STAND OUT as being superior.- but that is my opinion.

[Tyler J]

I should have stated I have no problem with the packaging, I open everything so cardbacks just make it that much easier. The main problems are scale and (lack of) articulation, and sometimes design-- (for example, all male figures from Spawn 33 having the exact same body type, the kit-bashed look of the spawn from that line, the over-use of the ankh symbol to compensate for the lack of an Egyptian feel, etc.)




The answer to that's easy too: I would much rather pay more. I would always pay the appropriate price for a well-designed, well articulated figure in the proper scale, rather than pass on the figure completely because it just doesn't measure up.

Take the Poacher II figure for example. I was ready to buy that figure when it comes out until I saw the in-scale comparison yesterday. There is no way I'd buy that figure now. If it was released in the appropriate scale, I would have.

I gotta say though, I do appreciate you coming on and discussing it with us Tyler

--Gav

Hey Gav. I gotta run- but I will try and get back to you on this soon. But it might be Monday- I have to stop working at some point.;)

[Black Beast of Aaargh]

I should have stated I have no problem with the packaging, I open everything so cardbacks just make it that much easier. The main problems are scale and (lack of) articulation, and sometimes design-- (for example, all male figures from Spawn 33 having the exact same body type, the kit-bashed look of the spawn from that line, the over-use of the ankh symbol to compensate for the lack of an Egyptian feel, etc.)




The answer to that's easy too: I would much rather pay more. I would always pay the appropriate price for a well-designed, well articulated figure in the proper scale, rather than pass on the figure completely because it just doesn't measure up.

Take the Poacher II figure for example. I was ready to buy that figure when it comes out until I saw the in-scale comparison yesterday. There is no way I'd buy that figure now. If it was released in the appropriate scale, I would have.

I gotta say though, I do appreciate you coming on and discussing it with us Tyler

--Gav
I'm with him.

The new packaging doesn't bother me at all. What does bother me is the direction to make the larger scale figures smaller and smaller. I wanted to buy Jack Frost, but he was too small. I wanted to buy Poacher 2, but he is too small. I wanted to buy Aries and Taurus from Zodiac 1, but they are too small. I wanted to buy the upcoming ogre figure, but he is too small.

I've waited for what feels like forever for your company to start making lines of toys like this (fantasy/warrior) and when you finally do, they are too small for me to even consider buying. It frustrates me that when I finally get what I've been waiting for, I don't actually get what I've been waiting for.

[lunatic-grin]

"No sir, I don't like it."

[Summoned From Hell]

How do you know that we haven't taken those things into consideration? Have you seen everything we are doing this year, or next year?

HALO would be my first example in taking all of your commentary into consideration- those figures are beyond articulated.

On my previous post I made sure to note that you took our demands into consideration but were not able to attend to it due to big market restrictions.
As for halo only the "spartans and it's variations" look good the monstters are have the same bland paint app TMP has been using nowadays.
And if I do remeber a lot of people were complaining about Halo not being 6".
I am not trying to be a fuhki**g a** I do recognize your work and the whole company effort to meet the fans expectations and I also understand that at the current momment it's not possible and you're doing what you can to maintain the products as top as possible.
Nevertheless I at least get frustrated to see that I won't be getting any of the McFarlane series thies year.:spawnskul

[xxspawn76xx]

I should have stated I have no problem with the packaging, I open everything so cardbacks just make it that much easier. The main problems are scale and (lack of) articulation, and sometimes design-- (for example, all male figures from Spawn 33 having the exact same body type, the kit-bashed look of the spawn from that line, the over-use of the ankh symbol to compensate for the lack of an Egyptian feel, etc.)




The answer to that's easy too: I would much rather pay more. I would always pay the appropriate price for a well-designed, well articulated figure in the proper scale, rather than pass on the figure completely because it just doesn't measure up.

Take the Poacher II figure for example. I was ready to buy that figure when it comes out until I saw the in-scale comparison yesterday. There is no way I'd buy that figure now. If it was released in the appropriate scale, I would have.

I gotta say though, I do appreciate you coming on and discussing it with us Tyler

--Gav

i agree as well. these are things that have been said for some time by fans/consumers (including myself). all these points are on the money. i would even add though that the ideas for new figures as well as the sculpts on some have been sub-par compared to previous lines. zodiac series 1, i was really anticipating seeing and buying. upon showing of the sculpts, i laughed. design and sculpts were just not there for me. and when i saw the size - truly another lost sale. i understand VERY well about oil/plastic and costs, but it stinks to see TMP doing what they are doing to save money. but hey, after how many years, it is nice to see SOMEONE addressing our issues on the board. I am truly amazed.

[Summoned From Hell]

I should have stated I have no problem with the packaging, I open everything so cardbacks just make it that much easier. The main problems are scale and (lack of) articulation, and sometimes design-- (for example, all male figures from Spawn 33 having the exact same body type, the kit-bashed look of the spawn from that line, the over-use of the ankh symbol to compensate for the lack of an Egyptian feel, etc.)




The answer to that's easy too: I would much rather pay more. I would always pay the appropriate price for a well-designed, well articulated figure in the proper scale, rather than pass on the figure completely because it just doesn't measure up.

Take the Poacher II figure for example. I was ready to buy that figure when it comes out until I saw the in-scale comparison yesterday. There is no way I'd buy that figure now. If it was released in the appropriate scale, I would have.

I gotta say though, I do appreciate you coming on and discussing it with us Tyler

--Gav

I have to agree with Gavrilo on everything he's been saying.I really wouldn't mind paying more for a better quality figure, I would pay 24 U$ on a figure on dark age style, articulatted, terriffic detail and paint and scaled.
As mention...the Spawn 33 series , we have 2 figures on very similar postion and all(aside from isis) on some normal position, it doesn't explore anything, it's not agressive or inovative. I think that if a figure is not articulated at least it'd rather have some interesting poses.
I think the main cause for this happening is this(yeah money)
TMP were different because it's figures were way better (detail and such) than it's rivals on the marketing, it outshone NECA and others with ease for the same price.
Now the problem is that McFarlane spent more on producing a figure than these companies and had to put them on the market with the same price. And for what I know Mcfarlane was not outselling theses companies and it was becoming hard to maintan the price.
So basically you have a company with a inferior product that sells the same amount or even more than TMP....Aside from getting some super famous licenses(and it's super difficult I know, and I congrat you on Halo) the only way was to go down to these companies level, and that's what is happening.

I know you're trying to maintain price but is it possible reduce the number of series and release more detailed ,figures and yes, for a higher price? I'd like to know, because maybe this can be a solution...don't know.

And thank you for listenning to our complaint's Tyler, I know how boring adn stressful it is but It really means to see you're taking your time to get back on us.

[Peter Hoffman]

I have to agree with Gavrilo on everything he's been saying.I really wouldn't mind paying more for a better quality figure, I would pay 24 U$ on a figure on dark age style, articulatted, terriffic detail and paint and scaled.



You would...but not many others would. If McF started charging $25 a figure, they would be out of business within 6 months.

[Hordakk]

Tyler: Please tell Todd to raise the price a 1.50 and go back to the regular size line instead of the tiny ones. Little ogre and little Poacher are making me sad. Seriously. Also, any news on the high end statue stuff Todd talked about early last year? I'm ready for the 2up sized Spawn on throne in resin!

[Peter Hoffman]

I don't like the shrunken figures either, but you act like entire lines are shrunk, which is not the case. It's the big figures that are reduced in size.

That doesn't make it acceptable, but don't exaggerate.

[avcprime]

like I said I don't mind the packaging, but please don't Shrink the figures. Trust me if the halo toys would have cost more people would have still buy them. I hope you guys are also keeping this in mind. I hate what you did to poacher's 2 size. Also what is happening to creativity department? Spawn lines have sucked recently, theres only one good figure per line.

[Muramasa]

thats because most of the people on the dark side of the board( that would be this side) are openers. ;) . i understand the reason, but i don't like it. i hate the big top cardboard flap more than anything else. if it was just the back of the package it wouldn't be so bad,but a 12 inch package is way too big for those of us anal retentive moc folks. anyway,i'll still buy them just not as many since im running out of room anyway.
MOC collectors liked those big cardboard flaps just fine for years before McFarlane changed the packaging in order to make shipping the figures more efficient. Collectors liked the colorful artwork on the packaging. People who open the toys look at that big packaging as just a bunch of crap to throw away.

[Hordakk]

Are you talking to me Peter Hoffman? If so please don't. You're a troll and a ******. I said Ogre and Poacher if memory serves me. You stay on your buttkissing side of the road, and I'll stay on my side of the road. Seriously, if you wanna kiss "the Todd" ass, why not fly down to AZ and just get it overwith. Personally, I'm sick of your song and dance.

[Mr.Sci-Fi]

The largest problem I have with this change is the timing, I like my figure collections to look the same, now just like joyride in their halo 2 line MCP has done the same. Couldn't you have started the halo series with this new packaging? The other lines really had no good time to switch but with halo I feel you made a terrible mistake with releasing the first wave in the clamshell and then changing. It makes your marketing look poor.

[Mr.Sci-Fi]

I would like to see the back of the of cards you have pictured on the site.

Does the bubble wrap around the sides and bottom of the card?

where is there glue, on the top of the front bubble ? any on back?

Is there tape on the back if the bubble does wrap around?


Is the hanger tab reinforced? How? On back or sandwiched between two cardboard layers?


The packing resembles what hasbro currently uses on their star wars and gi joe comic packs would you say they are similar to your new packaing?


How about a preview of the new packing art (front & back) for us Halo fans? you let the sports guys see theirs.

[Peter Hoffman]

go back to the regular size line instead of the tiny ones.

line = more than two figures

[Hordakk]

Aww Peter. Can I give you a kiss? I think I love you. Seriously, can we hug and be friends and then go out for a spot of tea? Wouldn't that be lovely?
I'm such a nice guy. I just don't know what to do with all this love. Who else want's some? Hugs? Kisses?
How big is that Halo line, anyway? Oh yeah, it's tiny. The whole line. All of em. Not one or two. All of em. All 3 series.

[Peter Hoffman]

And whose decision do you think that was?

[Mr.Sci-Fi]

How big is that Halo line, anyway? Oh yeah, it's tiny. The whole line. All of em. Not one or two. All of em. All 3 series.

The figure size of the halo line isn't lacking, any larger and the possibilty of ever getting vehicles ( which the line needs to really grow ) would be lost.

[Hordakk]

Well I am gonna go out on a limb and say, Steve Hamady did it! That buttmunch. He did it! Or no, you did it didn't you?? Or no wait, I did it. I made the call. And since I did, I have to ask, what does that have to do with me asking the mod to tell Todd to raise the figures 2 bucks and get them back to their old "big-ness"? Nothing. Ahh I wanna hug you man. We ashould be penpals or something.

[Joe F.]

I'm starting to feel the love and it's creeping me out.

[Gavrilo Princip]

Hordakk, have you been in the liquor cabinet again? ;)

--Gav

[Hordakk]

mrscifi: You think it doesn't lack but I do. You want vehicals? Then why didnt Todd just drop em to GI Joe size then? That would have made it more of a realistic possibility. I gotta think that there won't be vehicals in the current size of the Halo scale figures. Maybe, but I doubt it.
I have no problem with them changing cards, but I really would rather pay a couple more bucks per figure and get them all back to the 6-7" scale.

[Hordakk]

Gav: I'm sipping a gin and tonic right now as a matter of fact, How ya been old buddy?

[Hordakk]

I gotta call Hamady speaking of the old mang. Haven't talked to him in a few weeks.

[Mr.Sci-Fi]

mrscifi: You think it doesn't lack but I do. You want vehicals? Then why didnt Todd just drop em to GI Joe size then? That would have made it more of a realistic possibility. I gotta think that there won't be vehicals in the current size of the Halo scale figures. Maybe, but I doubt it.
I have no problem with them changing cards, but I really would rather pay a couple more bucks per figure and get them all back to the 6-7" scale.


3 3/4 inch scale for halo would've seen a lot more drastic drop in the quality of sculpt on important characters like MC. His armor in any smaller of scale would've lost alot of fine detail which it needs. Not to forget mentioning that at joe scale, I doubt the figures could have the same articulation as what they currently do. Joyride attempted an even smaller version than the 3 3/4 size and the toy's quality showed, most didn't have any amount of joints and the ones that did had an issue with them falling apart or breaking.

Joyride also produced a larger line at $5 more than what MCP currently charges and joyride's figures where far less articulated and the detailing was questionable. Even at a larger scale and a higher price another company couldn't manage to surpass what MCP has done for $5 less and at a more managable size.

[Peter Hoffman]

When it comes to huge licences like Halo, more often than not things like scale are determined by the licensor. I'm sure every single figure has to be approved by Bungie, so I really doubt McF had any decision when it came to what scale the line would be.

[Mr.Sci-Fi]

I don't think scale is something a licensor usually determines unless it might interfear with another company also producing something under the same property. I think property owners probably let the toy people (TMP) decide what size and price point a toy will sell at. The toy companys are in the busness of selling toys, they know how to market them. Most companys (bungie/MS) are worried about the percentage of return on their property rights, the total profit and that the item(s) are up to the quality of the property owner's name.

[BLACKPLAGUE]

That's going to be a pain for the stock boys at TRU. That's some ugly packaging for such beautiful figures.

[BloodySloth]

The only problem I have with the cardbacks is how boring that design is. I'm hoping those pics are just a proof of concept.

Other than that, they save plastic, save money, and save my fingers when I open the damn things. A+ from me.

[ChrisM]

My .02 cents...

I could care less about cardboard back or not. Neither has proven to be better for MOC collecting, I've seen plenty of crushed / dented bubbles right out of the case. And actually I don't really like the new clamshell design.

I do think that the samples shown are fugly, and hope they are just prototypes showing the shape/format. They remind me of the horrible color scheme of Lost series 2.

The other half of this discussion is, in my opinion, the more important part, the size of the newer figures.

Just like you would never change the scale of Sports figures mid run, the same should hold true for other lines. Halo is it's own animal, so the smaller size is ok - as long as it remains consistant.

I'm not stupid, and don't think that rising production costs don't matter, but messing with the scale within a line, or even within the same series will ultimately hurt the company. If Poacher 2 can't be made in scale w/Poacher 1, then don't make it... or raise the price a buck or 2, but don't scale it down. I had planned to display Poacher 2 next to my Poacher 1, but it would look silly (hence my picture of Poacher Jr. with the pop-gun). Jack Frost is another example. GREAT concept, but even though he towered over the village, he was small compared to the other figures. So maybe the design should've changed to make him an in-scale, cool looking figure.

This all adds up to fans like me not buying lines like Beowulf, Twisted X-Mas, the upcoming Poacher line, etc. So in then end collectors don't buy and the company suffers too.

In summary, when you plan a line, carve certain rules of the road in stone:
1. Figures must be in scale with other figures in the line.
2. If costs prohibit rule 1, change the figure / design.
3. Not discussed in this thread, but if you can't make the figures that need to be made, shelve the line. Beowulf without the rights to Angelina's likeness is a total bust.
4. When all else fails, see rule #1.

With all respect,

Chris

[herzograven]

Let me also say that you guys are taking this MUCH better than the sports board. And for that, I thank you.

As much as I'm currently unhappy with McF concentrating more on Sports than anything else at the moment, we all have to admit that before McF, action figures were crap! They seemed to come out of the same mold, with different and very amateur paint jobs.

Tonight I was working on a custom for a boardie friend tonight at our local comic book shop, and they saw the McF parts spread out and said they are always amazed at the quality of a McF sculpt.

Granted there are other companies out there now that can compete with McF on a quality level, but again, before McF Toys, there weren't any.

As for the packaging: I told a few people today that some people are just ANGRY about this, and we all laughed at it. It's a stupid ready to get upset over, it's not like McF just raised the price by double on each figure and went town 50% in size!

It's the packaging for crying out loud, get over it. But then again, most McF "sports" fans are on a little on the special side (I've seen some of the MOC collections, and they look pretty dumb, more like a warehouse than a collection, but then again I open all my crap).

Bottom line, I don't care about what packaging the figure come in, as long as the scale stays at 6"+, the quality remains at this level ... and for God's sake, GIVE US MORE (Sci-Fi/Fantasy/Horror) MOVIE FIGURES (no more stupid Napoleon Dynamite type crap)!

[Peter Hoffman]

As much as I'm currently unhappy with McF concentrating more on Sports than anything else at the moment,

There are just as many, if not more non-sports lines released every year than there are sports lines.

[Black Beast of Aaargh]

I don't like the shrunken figures either, but you act like entire lines are shrunk, which is not the case. It's the big figures that are reduced in size.

That doesn't make it acceptable, but don't exaggerate.
Well, as lines used to be 6 figures, but are now 4, technically, they did shrink :P

[Gavrilo Princip]

Gav: I'm sipping a gin and tonic right now as a matter of fact, How ya been old buddy?

Hangin' in there, man

[Tyler J]

I should have stated I have no problem with the packaging, I open everything so cardbacks just make it that much easier. The main problems are scale and (lack of) articulation, and sometimes design-- (for example, all male figures from Spawn 33 having the exact same body type, the kit-bashed look of the spawn from that line, the over-use of the ankh symbol to compensate for the lack of an Egyptian feel, etc.)

The answer to that's easy too: I would much rather pay more. I would always pay the appropriate price for a well-designed, well articulated figure in the proper scale, rather than pass on the figure completely because it just doesn't measure up.

Take the Poacher II figure for example. I was ready to buy that figure when it comes out until I saw the in-scale comparison yesterday. There is no way I'd buy that figure now. If it was released in the appropriate scale, I would have.

I gotta say though, I do appreciate you coming on and discussing it with us Tyler

--Gav

Sorry for the delay on my response. I understand your "gripe" about the scale of our figures. Like I mentioned before- it isn't the same market place it was back in the day, it isn't even the same market place it was 6 months ago. Here are some things to consider.

1. The "non-mass" stores have been shrinking, carry less toy product, or have downright closed their doors.
2. The price of oil is crazy. And that price is directly related to the plastic that we all love so very much.
3.The economy isn't exactly the in the best shape right now.

While some of you have already stated that you don't mind paying a bit more money for our "old style" toys, the majority of the customer base will mind. Nobody likes paying more money for something they used to get for a cheaper price. And with the price of oil going up, we can't continue to give you the same product for the same price.

And retailers aren't going to take more of our product if we increase our price to them. They will either carry less for the same price they paid before, or in some cases, like with the mass market- they will just tell us that they don't want it.

Your concerns and opinions are important, and I appreciate the feedback. But you have to realize that we aren't changing the way we do things just to upset you.

We are changing the way we do things because the market is changing and we have to respond. We still want to give you a cool figures, but we have to do so in a manner that makes sense financially and artistically.

[Tyler J]

My .02 cents...

I could care less about cardboard back or not. Neither has proven to be better for MOC collecting, I've seen plenty of crushed / dented bubbles right out of the case. And actually I don't really like the new clamshell design.

I do think that the samples shown are fugly, and hope they are just prototypes showing the shape/format. They remind me of the horrible color scheme of Lost series 2.

The other half of this discussion is, in my opinion, the more important part, the size of the newer figures.

Just like you would never change the scale of Sports figures mid run, the same should hold true for other lines. Halo is it's own animal, so the smaller size is ok - as long as it remains consistant.

I'm not stupid, and don't think that rising production costs don't matter, but messing with the scale within a line, or even within the same series will ultimately hurt the company. If Poacher 2 can't be made in scale w/Poacher 1, then don't make it... or raise the price a buck or 2, but don't scale it down. I had planned to display Poacher 2 next to my Poacher 1, but it would look silly (hence my picture of Poacher Jr. with the pop-gun). Jack Frost is another example. GREAT concept, but even though he towered over the village, he was small compared to the other figures. So maybe the design should've changed to make him an in-scale, cool looking figure.

This all adds up to fans like me not buying lines like Beowulf, Twisted X-Mas, the upcoming Poacher line, etc. So in then end collectors don't buy and the company suffers too.

In summary, when you plan a line, carve certain rules of the road in stone:
1. Figures must be in scale with other figures in the line.
2. If costs prohibit rule 1, change the figure / design.
3. Not discussed in this thread, but if you can't make the figures that need to be made, shelve the line. Beowulf without the rights to Angelina's likeness is a total bust.
4. When all else fails, see rule #1.

With all respect,

Chris

I agree with you a 100%. BUT, you do realize that some of these toys were created in the middle or before some of the items I listed above becoming a reality.
We can't always anticipate what is going to happen 6 months down the road, and we have to roll with the punches as they come.

For example, if we already showed everybody Poacher, and then had to deal with the cost of the figure after the fact, would you rather that we just drop him from the line- never to be seen again?

Or would you rather we figure out a way to keep him in the line.

[bonedust]

Tyler, while im not 100% crazy about some changes of late, i certainly understand them from a buisness point of view. i think the biggest problem is the majority of toy buyers/collectors dont understand big buisness and what it takes to survive.

here is my brief take...some is rehashed:
the world retail market is changing...fast. Raw material prices (oil, not to mention metals to make molds) are skyrocketing, and the average households hobby alotted dollars are down becuase of a soft economy. International and domestic shipping costs are way up. Yet the masses expect the same price/size/quantity weve seen since 1996?

so...

-keep figures and packaging the same and drive up prices drasticly?
or
-make minor changes and try and maintain prices and overall quality?

thats really the options...and, from what im reading into Joe and Tylers comments...McFarlane will be giving collectors BOTH options!!!

so, why are we complaining again?

[bonedust]

I agree with you a 100%. BUT, you do realize that some of these toys were created in the middle or before some of the items I listed above becoming a reality.
We can't always anticipate what is going to happen 6 months down the road, and we have to roll with the punches as they come.

For example, if we already showed everybody Poacher, and then had to deal with the cost of the figure after the fact, would you rather that we just drop him from the line- never to be seen again?

Or would you rather we figure out a way to keep him in the line.

give me the smaller figure now, and promise me a 12" down the road!!!!

[Black Beast of Aaargh]

I agree with you a 100%. BUT, you do realize that some of these toys were created in the middle or before some of the items I listed above becoming a reality.
We can't always anticipate what is going to happen 6 months down the road, and we have to roll with the punches as they come.

For example, if we already showed everybody Poacher, and then had to deal with the cost of the figure after the fact, would you rather that we just drop him from the line- never to be seen again?

Or would you rather we figure out a way to keep him in the line.
As I am not going to buy it due to how small it is, it pretty much has been dropped from the line in my mind.

[Black Beast of Aaargh]

Sorry for the delay on my response. I understand your "gripe" about the scale of our figures. Like I mentioned before- it isn't the same market place it was back in the day, it isn't even the same market place it was 6 months ago. Here are some things to consider.

1. The "non-mass" stores have been shrinking, carry less toy product, or have downright closed their doors.
2. The price of oil is crazy. And that price is directly related to the plastic that we all love so very much.
3.The economy isn't exactly the in the best shape right now.

While some of you have already stated that you don't mind paying a bit more money for our "old style" toys, the majority of the customer base will mind. Nobody likes paying more money for something they used to get for a cheaper price. And with the price of oil going up, we can't continue to give you the same product for the same price.

And retailers aren't going to take more of our product if we increase our price to them. They will either carry less for the same price they paid before, or in some cases, like with the mass market- they will just tell us that they don't want it.

Your concerns and opinions are important, and I appreciate the feedback. But you have to realize that we aren't changing the way we do things just to upset you.

We are changing the way we do things because the market is changing and we have to respond. We still want to give you a cool figures, but we have to do so in a manner that makes sense financially and artistically.
But, you are asking us the buy a smaller toy at the same price. Isn't that the same as asking us to pay more for the same thing we used to get for less?

Why not find ways to make the larger figures more cost effective, while keeping them at the scale they need to be?

I, for one, am not buying any of your smaller stuff. I had to pass on Jack Frost. I haveto pass on the whole first series of Zodiac. I have to pass on the ogre. I have to pass on Poacher. I can't be the only one who feels this way.

I may like how they look (which is why I was going to buy them), but I won't buy small versions of things that need to be big.

[Black Beast of Aaargh]

Tyler, while im not 100% crazy about some changes of late, i certainly understand them from a buisness point of view. i think the biggest problem is the majority of toy buyers/collectors dont understand big buisness and what it takes to survive.

here is my brief take...some is rehashed:
the world retail market is changing...fast. Raw material prices (oil, not to mention metals to make molds) are skyrocketing, and the average households hobby alotted dollars are down becuase of a soft economy. International and domestic shipping costs are way up. Yet the masses expect the same price/size/quantity weve seen since 1996?

so...

-keep figures and packaging the same and drive up prices drasticly?
or
-make minor changes and try and maintain prices and overall quality?

thats really the options...and, from what im reading into Joe and Tylers comments...McFarlane will be giving collectors BOTH options!!!

so, why are we complaining again?
Because we want our toys in scale with each other?

[Tyler J]

Well. This is definitely a "you can't make everybody happy" turn of events.

[Sanghelli]

Well. This is definitely a "you can't make everybody happy" turn of events.

Unfortunately, I think that's always the case.

I'm a bit bummed that they're changing the Halo packaging in the middle of the line, but it's not the end of the world. You gotta do what you gotta do.

[Black Beast of Aaargh]

Well. This is definitely a "you can't make everybody happy" turn of events.
It certainly is.

[bonedust]

Well. This is definitely a "you can't make everybody happy" turn of events.

pat of me wants to go look at the sports board responses...part of me doesnt.

[cerealwarz]

I agree with you a 100%. BUT, you do realize that some of these toys were created in the middle or before some of the items I listed above becoming a reality.
We can't always anticipate what is going to happen 6 months down the road, and we have to roll with the punches as they come.

For example, if we already showed everybody Poacher, and then had to deal with the cost of the figure after the fact, would you rather that we just drop him from the line- never to be seen again?

Or would you rather we figure out a way to keep him in the line.

WHHHHHHAAAATTTTTTT??????????:eek::eek::eek::eek::eek::eek::eek::eek:

You can"t anticipate what will happen in the future?????:eek::eek::eek::eek::eek::eek::eek:

You can borrow my time machine anytime:D

[Mr.Sci-Fi]

Unfortunately, I think that's always the case.

I'm a bit bummed that they're changing the Halo packaging in the middle of the line, but it's not the end of the world. You gotta do what you gotta do.


Not really the middle but right after the start of the line, which is worst. I just wonder why they followed through with the older packing and not start the line fresh with the new. They should've realised this from the get go.

[moviemaniac4]

At the end we will have to accept whatever package they decide.....

Reminds me the original packing for the first CDs. It was designed to catch attention, but was also a waste of material.....

If oil prices keep going up we will end with small plastic bags :D

[Karnis]

If oil prices keep going up we will end with small plastic bags :D

If oil prices keep going up we will end up WEARING small plastic bags. :eek:

[moviemaniac4]

If oil prices keep going up we will end up WEARING small plastic bags. :eek:

Lucky for me I can use banana tree leaves :D

[Tyler J]

WHHHHHHAAAATTTTTTT??????????:eek::eek::eek::eek::eek::eek::eek::eek:

You can"t anticipate what will happen in the future?????:eek::eek::eek::eek::eek::eek::eek:

You can borrow my time machine anytime:D

Let me grab a 2008 sports almanac. I will need your time machine very soon.

[Spawnomite]

Let me grab a 2008 sports almanac. I will need your time machine very soon.Let me know if the Spurs are gonna win the NBA Championship this year. ;) :p

[moviemaniac4]

Let me grab a 2008 sports almanac. I will need your time machine very soon.

You think Todd will let you go back in time and take over the company ?

fat chance......:cool:

[bborst]

I see no problem with any of this. The new clam shells they started to use in the past year really suck.

[Joe F.]

Let me know if the Spurs are gonna win the NBA Championship this year. ;) :p

The answer is no! Biff already told me! :p:spawnskul

But Bruce "Lee" Bowen will make a dirty play in this years playoff race! :D

[joe0750]

Reading is hard. hooked on fonics worked for me

[Karnis]

But Bruce "Lee" Bowen will make a dirty play in this years playoff race! :D

I predict BLB will bite Agent Zero in the knee in game 7 of the NBA finals.
Gilbert screams "Hibatchi!!!" in pain.
:eek: ;)

[moviemaniac4]

Saw Twelve Monkeys last night.....

Time travel is not easy........

[Karnis]

Saw Twelve Monkeys last night.....

Traveling in time is not easy........

Yeah, it really makes you drool uncontrollably. :p

[Tyler J]

You think Todd will let you go back in time and take over the company ?

fat chance......:cool:

You think if I could place bets on who would win the super bowl from the last 10 years I would work at a toy company???

Muhahahahaha!!

I would own Guam- and construct my own terror drome, possibly wear a blue mask.

[Joe F.]

You think if I could place bets on who would win the super bowl from the last 10 years I would work at a toy company???

Muhahahahaha!!

I would own Guam- and construct my own terror drome, possibly wear a blue mask.


I thought Guam was in our 401K program or am I confusing the with Guadalupe again??? :confused::confused:

[Mr.Sci-Fi]

Time travel is easy all you need is a Delorean and some gigawatts or a blue police box.

Or the right MUSIC (http://www.wavsource.com/snds_2008-04-12_996893705386236/movies/rocky_horror/time_warp.wav)

[moviemaniac4]

"Tyler and Joe escape from Guantanamo"

[moviemaniac4]

Time travel is easy all you need is a Delorean and some gigawatts or a blue police box.

Or the right MUSIC (http://www.frogstar.com/wav/displaywav.asp?fil=timewarp.wav)

If you are talking about the Rocky Horror Picture Show.......I am not putting those clothes..........again.........

[Mr.Sci-Fi]

Hey Joe or whoever you think you could atleast fix the website and update the listings under the series 2 and 3 halo toys, they both still say clamshells and I don't think the new cards qualify. The series 2 listings also need to be updated for exclusivness, atleast the silver eod does.


What about those pics of the back of the cards can we get some to see how they attach?

[xxspawn76xx]

i gotta say, its certainly a change of pace to see someone associated with tmp actually addressing these issues, and straight foreward. pretty direct answers, and that is refreshing. and maybe i have missed it, but tyler, you have certainly said more and in less time than the mods or any one else that is part of the company. it's just a shame mr. mcfarlane can't just come here and say these things himself.